Getting a police report after a car accident in Georgia is crucial. The official accident report provides an unbiased account of the car crash, which can be invaluable when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action.
At Joe Durham Jr., P.C., we can help you get a car accident report in Georgia and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Our attorneys provide dedicated and aggressive advocacy for clients in Albany and across Georgia.
Contact our Albany car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.
Why You Need a Police Car Accident Report in Georgia
Police reports play a significant role in car accident cases. You should always contact law enforcement after a car accident in Georgia to ensure an accurate report is filed, which can be a decisive factor in securing fair compensation.
Establishing the Facts of the Crash
A police report provides an official and unbiased account of the collision. When law enforcement officers arrive at the scene, they collect vital information such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as details about the parties involved.
Without a police report, it may be challenging to establish the facts of the accident, leading to potential disputes between drivers and insurance companies. Having a police report can help protect victims if the at-fault driver changes their story later to try and shift blame.
Insurance Claims
Insurance adjusters rely heavily on police reports when determining fault. If the accident report indicates one driver violated traffic laws or acted negligently, it can significantly impact the outcome of an insurance claim. Witness testimony from the police report can help clarify what happened, especially if the drivers provide conflicting accounts.
The police officer may note that both drivers contributed to the crash. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a person can recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident.
Legal Proceedings
Additionally, a police report can be instrumental in legal proceedings if an accident leads to a lawsuit. Courts consider police reports as strong evidence when determining liability and awarding compensation. The findings of law enforcement officers carry significant weight in court, making it harder for the at-fault party to deny responsibility.
Proving the other driver was at fault for a car crash is more difficult without a police report.
What Information Is on a Car Accident Police Report?
A typical Georgia accident report, known as the Georgia Uniform Motor Vehicle Accident Report, includes:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names, contact information, and insurance details of all involved parties
- Vehicle information, including make, model, and license plate numbers
- Description of damages to vehicles and property
- Injuries at the scene
- Witness statements and contact information
- Diagram of the accident scene
- Weather and road conditions
- Citations issued or laws violated
- Officer’s narrative and potential determination of fault
How to Get a Police Report After a Car Accident in Georgia
How to Get a Car Accident Report Online
Many Georgia police departments offer online access to accident reports. You can generally purchase accident reports through buycrash.com.
- Visit the website of the law enforcement agency that responded to your accident.
- Look for a section labeled “Accident Reports” or “Records.”
- Most police departments direct you to buycrash.com for accident reports.
- Select Georgia from the list of states on buycrash.com.
- Enter the accident date, location, and your vehicle’s VIN
- If available, enter the police report number.
- Pay the required fee (this usually ranges from $5 to $15).
- Download the report from buycrash.com.
How to Get a Car Accident Report By Mail
Using GDOT
Follow these steps to request an accident report by mail using the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) crash request form:
- Go to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) website.
- Download the crash report request form.
- Complete the form. Include the accident date, location, and drivers involved. Include the report number if you have it.
- Send the completed form and payment to
GDOT Crash Reporting Unit
935 United Ave. SE, Bldg 24
Atlanta, GA 30316
From the Police Department
You can also request an accident report by mail from the police department that responded to the collision. Be sure to check the police department website for specific instructions.
- Contact the police department website to confirm their mailing address.
- Send a letter with:
- Your full name
- Date and location of the accident
- Names of involved parties
- Report number (if known)
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Enclose a check or money order for the fee.
- Mail your request to the appropriate agency.
How to Get a Car Accident Report In Person
You can get a car accident report from the police department in person.
- Locate the records division of the responding agency.
- Bring identification and any information you have about the accident (date, location, report number).
- Complete any required forms.
- Pay the fee (cash, check, or credit card, depending on the agency).
- Receive your report immediately in most cases.
Police Department Contact Information
Albany, GA
Albany Police Department
Address: 201 W Oglethorpe Blvd, Albany, GA 31701
Phone: (229) 431-2100
Albany Police Department Website
Columbus, GA
Columbus Police Department
Address: 510 10th Street, Columbus, GA 31902
Phone: (706) 653-3100
Columbus Police Department Website
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta Police Department
Address: 226 Peachtree St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 614-6544
Atlanta Police Department Website
Savannah, GA
Savannah Police Department
Address: 201 Habersham St, Savannah, GA 31401
Phone: (912) 651-6675
Savannah Police Department Website (https://www.savannahga.gov/1216/Police)
Augusta, GA
Augusta Richmond County Sheriff’s Office
Address: 400 Walton Way, Augusta, GA 30901
Phone: (706) 821-1000
Augusta Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Website
The Importance of Reporting a Car Accident to Police
It’s crucial to report an accident promptly in Georgia. State law requires drivers to report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Failing to report an accident can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Criminal Charges: Failure to report a car accident can result in criminal charges, potentially leading to fines or even jail time.
- Insurance Complications: Delayed reporting may complicate your insurance claim or even lead to denial of coverage.
- Evidence Loss: As time passes, crucial evidence may be lost or witnesses’ memories may fade, weakening your case.
What If Police Didn’t Respond to the Car Wreck
If law enforcement didn’t come to the scene, you cannot obtain an official police car accident report. This can complicate your car accident claim.
If the police don’t respond to a car wreck, you should file an accident report at the nearest police station as soon as possible. Gather as much information as you can about the accident, including photos, witness statements, and contact information for all involved parties.
A car accident lawyer can help you navigate this process.
What If the Police Car Accident Report Is Inaccurate?
If a car accident report in Georgia contains mistakes, it could hurt your case. Our Georgia car accident lawyers will review the police report report in detail, comparing it with other evidence such as dashcam footage, witness statements, or medical records.
Our legal team will request corrections or clarifications if there are any errors. If law enforcement refuses to correct the accident report, an attorney can draft a formal statement or supplemental report.
How a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Joe Durham Jr., P.C., we understand the complexities of car accident cases and are here to help you through the entire legal process.
Gathering Evidence
Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations by reviewing traffic camera footage, collecting witness statements, and analyzing medical records. Our lawyers may also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
We can help you obtain a police report after a car accident. Our lawyers will analyze the report and take steps to correct any mistakes.
Negotiating a Settlement
A skilled car accident attorney can be invaluable in dealing with insurance companies. Insurers often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether, but a lawyer understands Georgia’s laws and knows how to counter these tactics. Our lawyers negotiate with insurance adjusters for a fair settlement while you focus on your recovery.
Representing You in Court
Most car accident claims are settled outside of court, but we are ready to represent you in a lawsuit if necessary. We will prepare legal arguments, present evidence, and advocate for the maximum compensation.
Contact Joe Durham Today for a Free Case Review
Obtaining a police report after a car accident in Georgia is essential. The car accident report can significantly impact the outcome of your insurance claim or legal case. At Joe Durham Jr., P.C., we’re committed to helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve.
Time is of the essence when it comes to accident reporting and filing a car accident claim. If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Georgia, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Call 229-210-6226 or contact us online today for a free consultation!
